Pizzeria Portofino's Bucatini Carbonara Recipe

guanciale

🥗Healthier: pancetta

💰Cheaper: bacon

Pancetta is a healthier alternative with similar flavor, while bacon is more accessible.

pecorino cheese

🥗Healthier: parmesan cheese

💰Cheaper: grated parmesan

Parmesan cheese is lower in fat and more widely available.

Start by rendering guanciale in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.

Add a generous amount of salt to boiling water for pasta cooking.

Cook bucatini in the salted boiling water until al dente, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Once the pasta is cooked, reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.

Turn off the heat on the skillet with guanciale and add grated pecorino cheese, mixing well.

Quickly add the hot bucatini to the skillet with the guanciale and cheese, tossing to combine.

If the mixture seems dry, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired creaminess is achieved.

Finish with freshly cracked black pepper to taste before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens